The barbecue has been in operating on the popular Lake Cathie Reserve for six weeks. 

It was officially opened on Friday May 11.

Welfare manager for The Hope Shop's three stores, Chris Cure, said the weekly event was more than a simple barbecue.

"When we first took over the store at Lake Cathie and continued to operate it as a community op shop, we saw there was another need," she said.

"It became obvious that the demographics of the Lake Cathie area really called for a little bit more than a barbecue.

"We felt that this event should not just be for those in need, but also for everyone; to coalesce the community.

"It needed to be a meeting place where people from all walks of life could come together. It had to be for everybody," she said.​

So popular is the event, that its first gathering attracted 15 people and within six weeks that had blossomed to some 45 regulars.

Mrs Cure praised all the volunteers - while those most responsible for the weekly event were presented certificates at the unveiling. Woolworths Lake Cathie, who donates all meat products for the event, were also acknowledged.

General manager The Hope Shop stores Roger Munro said the Lake Cathie barbecue was part of the success of the three outlets.

"This event provides the community with an outlet and provides this community with plenty of care," he said.

Some 170 volunteers man the three stores and donations and more volunteers are always welcome.

"We always need more of everything," Mr Munro said. "The more we have, the more we can do to help this community."

The Hope Shop is the welfare arm for Honour Church.